My Journey Across Industries and Organizational Lifecycles - Ovell Barbee
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and Chief Diversity Officer (CDO). I have worked across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and tech. This journey has shaped my perspective, helping me understand the intricacies of organizational culture and the challenges specific to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within each sector.
In manufacturing, I learned the value of efficient workforce strategies, balancing productivity with employee engagement. Transitioning to healthcare, I focused on creating compassionate, patient-centered policies that supported healthcare workers in high-pressure environments. The tech sector taught me the importance of agility and innovation in implementing DEI and HR initiatives. Each experience deepened my ability to tailor solutions, aligning them with the organization's broader strategic goals.
My experience spans all stages of organizational growth—whether startups are building cultures from the ground up, mid-sized companies are scaling operations, or mature organizations are seeking transformation. This breadth has given me a unique strategic advantage; I understand what works at each stage and how to implement practices that promote resilience, scalability, and inclusivity.
In startups, I’ve laid the groundwork for inclusive policies that set a strong foundation for future growth. For mid-sized firms, I’ve focused on scaling operations while keeping DEI as a core value. And in mature companies, I’ve led transformation initiatives to ensure diversity and inclusion remain integral to evolving business objectives.
One consistent aspect of my work has been a human-centered approach — addressing systemic and unconscious biases to create opportunities for all. By implementing policies that allow individuals to thrive, I’ve driven sustained cultural change and promoted inclusivity, helping employees feel a genuine sense of belonging.
My professional journey has led me to launch Ovell Rome & Associates, more commonly known as Ask Ovell. I leverage this diverse experience to help organizations navigate change, promote inclusion, and align their DEI efforts with business goals. This multifaceted background also adds value to my board service roles, where I provide strategic insight grounded in real-world experience.
Navigating different industries and organizational lifecycles has provided me with a distinct perspective, blending adaptability, strategic foresight, and a deep commitment to equity. Whether building new cultures or transforming existing ones, my focus remains on ensuring that inclusivity and business success go hand in hand.
Ovell, Principal of Ovell Rome & Associates, has a legacy of driving cultural transformation across Fortune 500 companies. He is an expert in shaping inclusive, equitable workplaces through human-centered strategies that promote long-term success. Passionate about mentorship and community, he actively engages with young leaders and values new perspectives gained through travel.
Connect with Ovell on LinkedIn.
